Thoracoscopic procedures in children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Thoracic Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Procedures
• Pediatric Endoscopy

Background:

• Thoracoscopy, first reported in 1910, has a specific history in pediatric applications since 1976.
• Recent advancements in minimally invasive surgery have spurred renewed interest in pediatric thoracoscopy.
• Experience with thoracoscopy in children has been documented by a limited number of institutions over the past 15 years.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the renewed interest and applications of thoracoscopy in pediatric thoracic disorders.
• To outline the common indications for performing thoracoscopy in children.
• To emphasize the role of pediatric surgeons in minimally invasive thoracic procedures.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and institutional experiences with pediatric thoracoscopy.
• Application of endoscopic techniques for thoracic disorders in children.
• Surgical management of specific pediatric thoracic conditions via thoracoscopy.

Main Results:

• Mediastinal mass evaluation is the most frequent indication for pediatric thoracoscopy.
• Other common uses include assessing pneumonia and managing pleural diseases (e.g., empyema).
• Thoracoscopy is also utilized for recurrent pneumothorax treatment, including pleurodesis or bleb excision.

Conclusions:

• Thoracoscopy is a valuable minimally invasive tool for diagnosing and managing pediatric thoracic conditions.
• Its application is expanding, driven by advancements in endoscopic surgery.
• Pediatric surgeons play a crucial role in the adoption and refinement of this technique.